Sleeping in Airports

Berlin Brandenburg Airport Guide

(photo courtesy of a guest reviewer / September 2022)

Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or are just quickly passing through, our Berlin Brandenburg Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit.  Here, you’ll find information on services and facilities available inside the airport – including details about airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, and everything in between.

BER Airport Overview

To help you plan your layover or overnight sleepover, here is a quick run-down about what to expect during your time at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (Code: BER).

What to Expect

Berlin Brandenburg Airport operates primarily through Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2), with T1 handling most traffic and T2 supporting low-cost carriers like Ryanair. There are food concessions located both landside and airside, although currently, only one bakery is open 24 hours a day. To help pass the time while you await your flight, you can connect to the free WiFi or hang out in one of the airport lounges on the airside.

(photo courtesy of a guest reviewer / June 2024)

Sleeping in Brandenburg Airport

If you’re airside looking for a place to nap, you may be more successful in Terminal 1, where you will have some luck with flat benches or armrest-free seating. Some travellers have reported sleeping on the couches outside Starbucks, but most recent reports suggest they lock them up at night, making a comfortable couch sleep impossible. Instead, if you walk past Starbucks, you will find long wooden benches outside the Room of Silence. It’s not the most comfortable, but it’s marginally better than sleeping on the floor!  Others have reported plenty of floor space to spread out and set up camp. Bring a mat and extra layers for added comfort!

If you don’t make it airside, some travellers have reported couches to sleep on outside of a burger restaurant on the second floor.

A few hotels are situated within walking distance, and there are sleep cabins inside the terminal.  See Airport Hotels below.

Read traveller airport reviews for more tips. For more airport information, continue scrolling down to explore more in our Berlin Brandenburg Airport Guide.

To help us keep this guide up-to-date, you can add or update information or write a review to submit airport tips and photos.

In this guide we may refer to locations as “landside” and “airside”. Landside is the public area of the terminal located in the non-secure zone, before security. Airside is the secure area of the terminal that you must reach by going through security.   

Airport Hours

Brandenburg Airport is open 24 hours.

Rest & Relaxation Zones

There are no confirmed dedicated rest or sleep zones within the terminals. If this has changed, click here to update this guide.

A Room of Silence is available for quiet reflection and rest, open to all travellers regardless of religious affiliation.
Location: Check-in Area, Gallery, Level E2
Hours: Closes overnight; reopens at 4:00 AM

Cots

Cots are not offered to stranded travellers at BER. If this has changed, click here to update the guide.

Berlin Brandenburg Airport Hotels & Sleep Pods

Quick Facts
  • Nearest Hotel:  At the Airport
  • Sleep Cabins & Pods: Yes
  • Day Rooms: No
  • Nearby Hotels with Shuttles: Yes

When the prospect of sleeping on the floor or in a chair gives you nightmares, there is good news for those looking to sleep at Brandenburg Airport in comfort. If you are on a layover, there are sleep pods and a hotel on the public side of Terminal 1. You will need to pass through immigration to access both. A few area hotels provide an airport shuttle.

Hotels at the airport

  • NapCabs – Four sleep cabins are equipped with a single bed. Location: Train station, Level U1, Level U1. Rates: 17,00 €/h (6:00 AM to 10:00 PM) and 12,00 €/h (10:00 PM to 6:00 AM). Minimum charge 34,00 € (Charged to the minute).
  • Steigenberger Airport Hotel – Located outside Terminal 1, a 50m walk from the terminal. » Check Rates
  • InterCityHotel Berlin Brandenburg Airport – Located outside Terminal 1, a 200m walk from the terminal. » Check Rates

Hotels near the airport

For more options, visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels near Brandenburg Airport that can be sorted by price, distance, traveller rating and popularity.

Airport Lounges

Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships

Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there is a lounge that you can enter by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass, or using a lounge membership program.

  • Lounge Tegel – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Level E1, opposite Gate B17, Schengen departure area (accessible from Terminal 2 with sufficient time for passport control if returning to non-Schengen gates). Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Showers: Yes (a shower kit is available for €15, which includes a towel and slippers on loan). Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes (quiet area available). Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the Door (€36.00 for 3 hours) • Lounge membership programs • Elite airline status (Lufthansa First/Business/Elite Status or Star Alliance partners).
  • BER Lounge Tempelhof – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Level E1, Gate A20, Schengen departure area. Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM ). Showers: Yes (a shower kit is available for €15, which includes a towel and slippers on loan). Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes (relaxation area with cozy recliners and panoramic views). Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the Door (€48.00 for 3 hours) • Prepaid lounge passes • Lounge membership programs • Elite airline status (Lufthansa First/Business/Elite Status or Star Alliance partners).
  • Zeitgeist VIP Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, exact location not specified but accessible through VIP Service Zeitgeist (likely near Main Pier). Hours: Unknown. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes. Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Available through airssist’s Meet and Greet Service • select airline partnerships • direct booking via the airport’s VIP service.

Airline Lounges

If you are a First or Business Class traveller, you may have access to the lounges listed below. Walk-in or pay-at-the-door access is not available at these lounges. For more information, check the airline’s website.

  • Lufthansa Business Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Level E1, Schengen departure area. Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Showers: Yes. Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes (Quiet Room is available). Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (from €39.00, subject to availability) • Elite flight status – First/Business Class passengers, Lufthansa/Star Alliance Elite Status (ie, HON Circle, Senators) • United Airlines Global Services Card members.
  • Lufthansa Senator Lounge – Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Level E1, Schengen departure area (exact gate proximity not specified in sources). Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Showers: Yes (based on standard Lufthansa lounge amenities, including spacious shower cubicles). Dedicated Rest Zone: Yes (Quiet Room is available). Sleep Facilities: No. Lounge Access: Pay at the door (€39.00 starting rate) • First Class passengers • Lufthansa HON Circle Members • Senators.

Drinking Water

Free water dispensers are available airside, located near washrooms. Locations: Gates A18/19 • A08/09 • A04/05 • B04/05 • B08/09 • B18/19

Food & Drinks

Food outlets operate on limited and varying schedules, especially overnight. At the time of this update, the only confirmed 24-hour option is:

  • Kamps Bakery – Terminal 1, Train Station T1/2, Level U1

There are reports of a 24-hour McDonald’s (Terminal 1, Level E0, landside), but this could not be independently verified.

Vending machines are also available in both terminals.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Luggage storage is available. Location: Train Station T1/T2, Level U1. Hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Rates: unknown.

Mobile Charging

Charging options are mixed and can be limited, particularly landside. Confirmed locations:

  • Departure Areas, Level E1, near Gates A10–A17
  • Departure Areas, Level E1, near Gates B10–B17
  • Departure Areas, Level E2, near Gates C06–C07

Traveller reports:

“Most gates have charging stations with Lightning, Micro-USB, and USB-C cables.” (Jan 2023)
“T1 landside has very few charging points and none at seats. T2 has sockets between many bench seats.” (Dec 2023)

Showers

Showers are available in the Tegel Lounge and Tempelhof Lounge for an additional fee. There are no public showers. If this information has changed, click here to update the guide.

WiFi/Internet

Free WiFi is available at Brandenburg Airport. Connect to the “_Free Airport WiFi” network.

Security & Safety

We’ve not been informed of any safety issues at BER. However, sleeping in any airport can include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. It’s important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and the security of your valuables. Here are a few tips:

  • Safety First. It’s a good idea to know where the security office is located and look for video cameras where you plan to sleep. You can also ask the security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
  • Don’t Seclude Yourself. If you’re travelling alone, we recommend you stay near other travellers or close to security. This will help you feel more secure and deter potential thieves.
  • Hide Your Valuables. It’s also important to hide your valuables. Don’t leave them out in plain view, as this could make you a target for theft. Additionally, if you are a deep sleeper, you may want to padlock your bag to something or sleep with your bag up against a wall to make it harder for someone to access zippers and pockets. We have received reports of sleepers who woke up without their phones and laptop bags. The travellers were left with just their headphones and laptop bag strap.
  • Stay Alert. It’s best to stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Drink coffee or other caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. These simple precautions can help you enjoy a safe night at the airport.

More Airport Information

More Services, Facilities & Things To Do On A Layover
Accessibility Services – The airport’s Mobility Service Team provides assistance from check-in through boarding for passengers who require support. Assistance can be requested at information desks during operating hours.

Airport Information – Information desks are available in Terminal 1 and offer help with directions, services, and general enquiries. Desks operate 24 hours in key arrival, check-in, and departure areas.

Art & Exhibitions – Several permanent and temporary art installations are displayed throughout Terminal 1.
The Room of Aviation pop-up exhibition is located near the train station.

ATMs – ATMs are available in both terminals, located in check-in, departure, and arrivals areas, including baggage claim.

Baggage Carts – Baggage trolleys have previously been available in parking areas and car parks. Availability inside the terminals is unclear.

Baggage Wrap –  A luggage-wrapping service operates near the train station during daytime hours.

Currency Exchange – Travelex operates multiple currency exchange counters across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, including arrivals and departures. Hours vary by location and flight activity.

Family Services

  • Strollers – Complimentary strollers are available throughout both terminals on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Kids TV corner – Small children’s TV areas are located in arrivals baggage claim areas in both terminals.
  • Children’s Play Area – A dedicated play area is available in Terminal 1 near the MarketPlace.

Lost and Found – Lost property services are located near the train station serving Terminals 1 and 2.

Medical Services

  • Dentist – Lost property services are located near the train station serving Terminals 1 and 2.
  • Pharmacy – Pharmacies are available in Terminal 1 in both arrivals and departure areas, with daytime and evening hours.

Observation Deck – An observation deck overlooks the airfield and is open daily during daytime and evening hours. Admission is charged.

Parking – Short-term Kiss & Fly parking allows brief stops near the terminal. Multiple covered and economy parking options are available for longer stays.

Postal Services – Postal services are available at a Relay store in Terminal 1. Parcel services are also offered near the train station.

Printing – Document printing services are available near the train station during daytime hours.

Runaway – Avoid endless queues at the security controls and book a time slot completely for free! More information on Brandenburg Airport Official Website.

SIM Cards – A reader has asked us to include where to buy SIM Cards. If you know, click here to update this airport guide.

Smoking – Designated smoking rooms are located inside Terminal 1, and additional smoking areas are available outdoors on the public side. Terminal 2 also has a designated smoking area near the entrance.

Tax Refund Services – VAT refund services are available through Global Blue and Travelex at designated counters in Terminal 1. Refund methods and hours vary by provider.

Tourist Information – The Welcome Center provides tourist information, attraction tickets, and Berlin Welcome Cards. It is located in Terminal 1 arrivals and operates during daytime and evening hours.

Travel Agencies – Two travel agencies operate in Terminal 1 arrivals and can assist with bookings and travel arrangements during daytime and evening hours.

Working Stations – Workstations with power outlets are available near selected departure gates. A co-working space with desks and meeting rooms is also available in Terminal 1 arrivals and can be booked by the hour.

Airlines
Berlin Brandenburg airport is served by the following airlines: Aegean • Aer Lingus • Air Alsie • Air Anka • Air Baltic • Air Cairo • Air France • Air Serbia • AJet • AlbaStar • Arkia • ASL Airlines • Austrian Airlines • Azerbaijan Airlines • BA City Flyer • BlueBird • British Airways • Brussels Airlines • Bulgaria Air • Condor • Corendon Airlines • Corendon Airlines Europe • Croatia Airlines • Danish Air Transport • Delta Air Lines • EasyJet • EasyJet Europe • EasyJet Switzerland • Egypt Air • EL AL – Israel Airlines • European Air Charter • Eurowings • Evelop • Finnair • Fly Egypt • Fly Erbil • Flynas • FlyOne • Freebird Airlines • Freebird Airlines Europe • Hainan Airlines • Hiberian Airlines • Iberia • Iberia Express • Icelandair • Iraqi Airways • Israir • Jet2.com • KLM • KLM Cityhopper • KLM Malta • LOT Polish Airlines • Lufthansa • Lufthansa City Line • Luxair • MIAT Mongolian Airlines • Neos • Norse Atlantic Airways • Norwegian Air Shuttle • Norwegian Air Shuttle • Nouvelair Tunisie • Pegasus Airlines • Play • Qatar Airways • Ryanair • SAS • Scoot • Sky Alps • Smartlynx • Smartwings • Southwind Arilines • SundAir • SunExpress • Swiss • Tailwind Airlines • TAP Air Portugal • Trade Air • Transavia Airlines • Transavia France • TUIfly • Tunis Air • Turkish Airlines • Ukraine International Airlines • United Airlines • Volotea • Vueling Airlines • Wizz Air.
Airport Transportation: Getting To/From The Airport

Bus

  • Express buses X7 and X71 (Rudow Terminus U7 – BER T1/2). Duration: 14 minutes.
  • Express bus BER2 (Potsdam Central Station – BER T1/2). Duration: 60 minutes. [ more info ]

Car Rentals

These car rental companies have locations at Brandenburg Airport in T1, Arrivals Area 1/2, Level E0. Avis Budget • Hertz • Sixt • Europcar • Enterprise.

Car Sharing

You can now easily rent-a-car via an app. No paperwork, just get the car and go. Bolt Drive • MILES Carsharing • Share Now GmbH • Sixt Share are the four companies with cars at BER Airport. Location: T1, Car Park P4.

Hotel Shuttles

See also Airport Hotels above.

Ride Sharing

Uber operates throughout Germany. A ride to the city centre will cost you about €35 – 45.

Taxi

Taxi ranks are located in front of T1 on E0.

Trains

The Airport Express (FEX) and regional trains (RE7, RB14) travel between the Berlin central station and “Flughafen BER – Terminal 1-2” is located below Terminal 1. The S-Bahn lines S9 and S45 stop at both “Flughafen BER – Terminal 1-2”.

Last updated: 2026-01-14

This guide is for informational purposes only to assist with your planning.  All information, including rates and hours, is subject to change at any time without notice.   The information in this airport guide is based on information collected and/or received from the airports, lounges, hotels, transportation providers, and their websites. We are not representatives of any of the above-mentioned service providers. To report errors or to add/update any items mentioned in the guide: update the airport guide or  write a review.